Disaster Response Resources

During the first stage following a disaster, search and rescue (typically first 72 hours), there is not much that can be done. Some areas may not even be accessible yet. With a hurricane or flooding, flood waters may still be rising in some areas while receding in others.

Once the water subsides, the community will begin the process of assessing their needs and how we can all work together to help the local congregations care for their community.

What can you do?

  • Pray – continue to pray for the people and communities affected. May God’s healing presence give them peace and hope in their time of need.
  • Give – gift to the synod’s disaster fund will be used to assist those affected
  • Connect – learn more about the situation and our response.

Worship Resources in Times of Disaster

  • Worship Service – a collection of prayers, psalms, and hymns to be used in times of disaster
  • A Service of Remembrance, Thanksgiving, and Hope – candlelight service to be used in the aftermath of a hurricane (a service of bidding prayers, readings, lighting of candles, and hymns which can be easily adapted by a congregation without bulletins or electricity).
  • Prayers
  • From Chaos to Community – A guide to helping friends and neighbors recover and rebuild after a major disaster

Emergency Management Coordinators

TEXAS

LOUISIANA

 

Volunteers

Volunteers who would like to partner with the recovery effort should be as self-sufficient as possible. Student groups should have at least one adult for every 6-8 youth who participate, preferably parents. Preparation before serving includes learning about the area you plan to enter, emotionally preparing to accompany people in crisis, praying for the community you will serve, and securing necessary housing, equipment, and meal arrangements.

We enter into hurricane-impacted areas with humility, remembering that people’s lives will never be the same. For some the results of flooding and a faltering economy has moved their once stable lives into serious crisis. There is a particular need to help people without insurance and those with limited financial assets, the elderly, handicapped, or single mothers. We are grateful that you will partner with us as we practice our faith together.

Volunteer Housing Sites

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For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.

~ Jeremiah 29:11

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